American folk craft from colonial times to the modern era provides the inspiration for the 25 craft projects in this beautifully illustrated, practical visual history. Here are classic woven bowls and carved waterfowl decoys, chairs decorated with harvest images and patterned with fancy wood grains, imitation scrimshaw letter openers and vibrant patchwork quilts, a Noah's ark set and a copper angel weathervane, "tramp art" boxes and lamps made from colorful woven comic pages. The book is heavily illustrated with color photos of historical pieces and finished projects, as well as color and black and white diagrams and templates.

"More than just a craft book, this is a history of American folk art providing a fascinating insight into early American ingenuity and artistic skills. From woodwork, metalwork and basket weaving to quilting, embroidery and rug making, Janice Eaton Kilby demonstrates how to make your own heirloom pieces for your home.... Clearly explained and illustrated, each section is accompanied by a brief history of the craft, painting a vivid picture of the early settlers' lives and the resources available at that time. Some projects can be achieved in a day, others will take you through the winter evenings, but all will provide a satisfying end-piece, to be treasured by generations to come."óLucy Watson